How to Achieve a Goal?
One Idea:
I struggle with achieving goals. When I reflect on the goals I have achieved, a few things came to mind.
1. Start with a Clear Goal
A well-written goal is specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART).
SMART Goal Example:
- Specific: I will improve my fitness level by working out three times per week.
- Measurable: I will track the number of workouts completed each week.
- Achievable: I can commit to 30-minute sessions.
- Relevant: Fitness is important for my overall health.
- Time-bound: I will achieve this for the next 3 months.
Goal Statement Example:
“I will complete 3 30-minute workouts per week for the next 3 months to improve my fitness level.”
2. Measure it.  Create a 1-Page Tracking Document
A one-page tracking document should help you visually monitor progress in a straightforward way. Here’s how you can structure it:
A. Header Section
- Goal Title: Include the name of the goal.
- Start Date: The date you began tracking the goal.
- End Date: The date you want to achieve the goal.
B. Tracking Table
Create a table where you can record key information for each day or week (depending on your goal’s timeline).
| Week/Date | Task or Milestone | Status/Progress | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Week 1 | Workout 1 (30 minutes) | Completed | Felt great today |
| Week 1 | Workout 2 (30 minutes) | Completed | Slightly tired |
| Week 1 | Workout 3 (30 minutes) | Incomplete | Ran out of time |
| Week 2 | Workout 1 (30 minutes) | Completed | Excellent energy |
- Week/Date: Break down progress by the week or by specific dates.
- Task or Milestone: Specify what you need to do (e.g., “Workout 1”, “Read 30 pages”).
- Status/Progress: Write how you did (e.g., “Completed”, “In Progress”, “Incomplete”).
- Notes: Brief notes on how it went, challenges, successes, or adjustments.
C. Weekly Accountability Meeting (WAM)
- Weekly Review: At the end of each week, include a short space to assess:
- What went well?
- What could have been better?
- Adjustments needed for the upcoming week.
D. Final Section
- Goal Achievement Date: After the goal’s time frame, add a space to record the achievement date and whether the goal was met.
The link below is a simple 1 pager I have used to track progress on goals. It is set up for 12 weeks, but can be used for any duration.  There are 3 circles for each day that can be checked off as you achieve the “key plays” supporting your goal. (There is a very positive psychological effect when checking the box!)
This system will help you stay on track and motivated as you visually see your progress.
One Question:
What is one goal, if achieved in the next 3 months, would make you feel great?
One Exercise:
This week make a list of your goals. Select one that is compelling. Determine what portion of that goal be accomplished in the next 12 weeks.  Write out your smart goal & actions to achieve it. If motivated after putting it on paper, get started by holding your first WAM (weekly accountability meeting) on Sunday!
P.S. Some helpful hints:
 – Keep your goal tracker in plain siteÂ
– Have daily accomplishments you can check off early in day. (ie. Drink 16oz water when I wake up, Do 20 sit ups)
– Make sure you spend 5-10min a week reflecting on past week & noting any improvements for coming week. (WAM session)
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You can do it!
Dave